Thread: Rechtsstreit Konami vs UDE

On December 11, 2008, Konami Digital Entertainment, Konami's American branch, announced that they would be taking control of the TCG. This would give Konami full control of the Yu-Gi-Oh! Trading Card Game. Upper Deck Entertainment have stated these reports are false and treatened legal action, should Konmai continue to broadcast this. An injunction is scheduled to take place in the Netherlands between Upper Deck and Konami on December 22nd. On January 6 2009, the injunction was ruled by Dutch courts in favor of UDE, with California backing up the ruling, effectively stopping Konami's takeover of the Worldwide version of the game. On January 15th 2009, Konami said that the lack of availability of champion packs of Upper Deck have terminated the contract between the two companies.

North Las Vegas, NV (February 17, 2009) – Due to circumstances beyond its control, Upper Deck regrets to announce that all future Organized Play programs and events in North America for the Yu-Gi-Oh! TRADING CARD GAME have been canceled. The unavailability of product and prizes affects all upcoming North American Yu-Gi-Oh! OP programs and events, including Shonen Jump Championships, Regional Qualifiers, the National Championship and the monthly Hobby League program.

For months, Upper Deck has continued in good faith to support Yu-Gi-Oh! OP, so as not to abandon the player and retailer community of which it has been an integral part for six years. Upper Deck remains committed to the Yu-Gi-Oh! community and will continue to fight Konami’s actions in court. Upper Deck hopes to once again be able to offer Duelists the high caliber events to which they have become accustomed."